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Prostate cancer

Pierre65
New Contributor
April

Prostate cancer

I am 60 years, living and working in Sydney for almost four years. I was diagnosed with prostate cancer after a biopsy that rated the cancer as gleason 4+3 with extracapsular extension (what is called locally advanced, high risk: mean it must be treated but it is curable).

The months between the first PSA test and the PSMA pet scans was really a emotional journey, I will never forget that. It will put all the rest in perspective

Last week I talked with a radiotherapist, a very nice guy that took a whole hour of his time to explain and listen to me, what a huge relief it was (because the information one gather on internet is not the same as the personalized advice of a human). And before that all consultations were by a very competent surgeon but it was always squeezed and very limited time, having the time to really talk and ask questions is hugely valuable (one cannot compare with reading resources on internet or books, even if those are really abundant and good)

Even better he told me he can treat me in the public sector, so that medicare will cover the cost.
Having faith in the doctor and having a treatment plan makes a huge difference. I should have SBRT (five days of radiotherapy) sometimes in May. So now I prepare for that by improving my diet and doing sport. I am thankful to be in Sydney close to one of the biggest hospital and having such a good medical system !

Pierre

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1 REPLY 1
Richard1
Frequent Contributor
April

Re: Prostate cancer

Going through cancer will test you like nothing else. Having a great medical team listen and care make that journey so much smoother. Looking back, my experience with doctors, nurses, cancer caregivers, chemo specialists was amazing. Everyone looked after me so well. When I rang that buzzer in bed the nurse’s always came, never had to wait. My surgeon saved my life, said it was more complicated than heart surgery. Medicare took care of all the bills. It’s been almost a year and a half since it all happened, and I’m just starting to realise how lucky I am to be alive.

Good luck and best wishes Pierre.

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